Ordinary Time; Wednesday, July 18, 2007

We are home, Thomas is doing well. He ran fever last night, but seems to be fine this morning. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.

Old Testament Lesson

1 Samuel 20:1-23

CS Lewis wrote that the love in life that is most unappreciated is the between friends. Think about in your life, how it has always been your friends, and probably certain ones at certain times that were there for you when you needed them. We see that in this passage between David and Jonathon. Even through his father was trying to kill David, Jonathon remained true to his friend.

Friends bring us love, support, help, lots of things. We could not make it with out family, but likewise, we could not make it without friends. And you know the old saying, to have a friend, you must be a friend.

New Testament Lesson

Acts 12:18-25

One thing we see constantly in Acts was that everything was not a bed of roses. The Apostles were working hard to spread the good news, but there were always people and forces working against them. The Lord never promised it would always be easy. He never told us that we would not face opposition. He never told us that we would not grow weary or tired.

He did promise that He would never leave nor forsake us. He did promise that even in the midst of problems, He would make a way. He did promise that we were the sheep of His pasture. Today, don't focus on the things that are working against what God would have you to do. Focus on God.

Gospel Lesson

Mark 2:13-22

We see Jesus show us that if we want to bring the good news to those that are in need; we have to be willing to meet them where they are. He took the Gospel to Matthew, and to Matthew's home. He knew what most important was that Matthew hear this good news of salvation, and He was willing to go and do whatever it took.

Because Matthew was willing to hear. Jesus didn't go home and eat with everyone. He let the rich young ruler walk away. But, He knew Matthew was ready. He was able to listen to His Father, and know which way to go. May we have the gift of discernment so that we know which way to go as well.